Director Pedring Lopez says PH lacks female action stars

Filipino director Pedring Lopez lamented the studio system in the Philippines, which may limit local actors' potential to take on projects abroad.

- 

Director Pedring Lopez and actress-singer Oymira.

"My problem is the studio system (in the Philippines), which major companies mostly sign. So it's really difficult for me because I am into co-productions with different countries," said Pedring during a media conference for the movie "Shadow Transit" held in Quezon City recently.

"Shadow Transit," a thriller-romance film starring Yoshi Sudarso, KC Montero, and Qymira, was among the films featured at the 13th QCinema International Film Festival.

Pedring added, "I recall talking to Viva when 'Maria' was still up in the air, and when I spoke to them, the Philippines is such a small place, and why can't we create our own actors and go out like what other countries are doing now?

"We have good actors and stories in the Philippines. But why are we contained in our own backyard when we can offer much more? So that's what I do. I bring the story and shoot here. And on the lookout for the next female action star," he said.